Hook and fenestration retractor

ABSTRACT

A surgical device for retraction of a body part is disclosed. The surgical device comprises an anchor at each end of the surgical device; an elongate body comprising a plurality of fenestrations along a body length wherein each fenestration is sized to receive at least part of one of the anchors; and a stopper preventing a tail end of the device being pulled through any of the plurality of fenestrations. The surgical device may also comprise additional features such as, the elongate body being sufficiently flexible to fold back or partly fold back on itself and the lead anchor and tail anchor being oriented in the same direction. Also provided is a method of manufacturing the surgical device; a method for inserting the surgical device; and a kit comprising the surgical device.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a surgical device, a method of using asurgical device and a method of manufacturing a surgical device. Moreparticularly, this invention relates to a surgical device and methodsfor retracting a body part during surgery comprising an anchor at eachend and an elongate body comprising a plurality of fenestrations.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Laparoscopic surgery is carried out by passing ports through multiplesmall incisions, or by using Single Port Laparoscopic Surgery (SPLS)which utilizes only a single incision and single port with multiplechannels. The benefits of laparoscopic surgery and/or SPLS have beenreported to include reduced post-operative pain, tissue trauma andscarring as well as faster recovery from surgical procedures.

In accessing target tissue to be operated upon, medical personneltypically use a retractor system or apparatus to hold adjacent tissue tobe retracted from the operating field. This is particularly the casewhere the laparoscopic procedure is carried out in the abdomen of apatient and obstructive tissue needs to be temporarily and gently movedout of the way. Such retractors may be inserted into the abdomen andretained in position through an incision or laparoscopic port, howeversome are designed to be entirely intra-abdominal. These typicallycomprise variations on a theme of a thread, tube, band or rod with ananchoring mechanism such as a clasp or surgical hook on either end. Somedesigns comprise two segments with an anchor between them as well as ateach end. Patients and their internal organs can vary dramatically insize and shape, hence these internal retractors need to incorporatemechanisms to vary the length between the two (or more) anchoringpoints. These mechanisms may include a lockable pulley system, or, wherea needle on a thread attached to the retractor is passed through theabdominal wall, the point at which the thread is secured externally canbe varied. A similar means of retraction can also be attained by usingsurgical sutures, anchored at one point, drawn across the organ to beretracted, then anchored at a second point. Pulley systems can be fiddlyto manipulate, and when tightening a thread which is already applying aforce against the retracted organ, such as liver, there is a risk ofcausing “cheese-wiring” as the thread drags across the tissue. Internalretractors which have a threaded end on a needle, which is passedthrough the abdominal wall, are limited by the ensuing difficulty inadjusting to an alternative location once the needle has been passed.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,251,889 discloses an apparatus for intra-abdominallymoving an internal organ comprising a length of cord that has one tissueconnector at each end and one in its mid-section. The tissue connectorsmay be suture needles, “T” bars, surgical graspers, barbed needles,hooks, clasps or rivet assemblies.

Another device to provide retraction of larger soft tissue structures isthe EndoLift™ Port-Free Retractor. The EndoLift™ Retractor and organ areanchored directly to the endocavity wall. The device is comprised of atelescopic stainless steel bar and two articulated clips positioned oneither end of the bar. The stainless steel bar is placed underneath thetissue and then an instrument is used to grasp one of the clips andanchor it to the intra-abdominal wall. The process of fastening thesecond clip creates the lift necessary to retract the tissue.

US patent publication 2014/0235936, the publication of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/346,703, discloses a system for retracting anorgan comprising two clips joined by a flexible string or thread. Eachclip comprises two generally opposing segments that form a jaw that canbe opened and closed to grab tissue.

A retractor which can be secured at a desired length without using apulley mechanism or externalised suture, and yet which is completelyintra-abdominal, would be advantageous, and could complement or enhanceother forms of retraction, such as a vacuum retractor apparatus.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is broadly directed to a novel and inventivesurgical device and method which has particular application inlaparoscopic surgery but is not limited thereto. The invention hasarisen after the present inventor developed a method and device foradjusting the length or span between two anchors which does not relyupon a pulley system, nor externalising of any suture anchor.

In a broad form, the invention relates to a retractor comprising ananchor at each end and an elongate body comprising a plurality offenestrations along a body length.

In a first aspect, there is provided a surgical device for retraction ofa body part comprising:

-   -   an anchor at each end of the surgical device;    -   an elongate body comprising a plurality of fenestrations along a        body length wherein each fenestration is sized to receive at        least part of one of the anchors; and    -   a stopper preventing a tail end of the device being pulled        through any of the plurality of fenestrations.

The elongate body may comprise a lead end and a tail end. The elongatebody may comprise a strip shape or substantially a strip shape. In otherembodiments, the elongate body may comprise a round, ovoid or othershape. The elongate body may be substantially planar in cross sectionalprofile.

The elongate body may comprise a top surface and a bottom surface. Thetop and bottom surfaces may be flat or substantially flat. The elongatebody may comprise rounded edges between the top and bottom surfaces. Theelongate body may comprise side rims. The side rims may comprise athickness of 2.0 to 3.0 mm; 2.2 to 2.6 mm; or 2.3 to 2.5 mm. Thethickness may comprise 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6; 2.7; 2.8; 2.9or 3.0 mm. In a particular embodiment, the thickness is 2.4 mm.

The elongate body may comprise a width of 2.0 to 50.0 mm; 4.0 to 25.0 mmor 5.0 to 20.0 mm. The width may comprise 2.0; 2.5; 3.0; 3.5; 4.0; 4.5;5.0; 5.1; 5.2; 5.3; 5.4; 5.5; 5.6; 5.7; 5.8; 5.9; 6.0; 6.1; 6.2; 6.3;6.4; 6.5; 6.6; 6.7; 6.8; 6.9; 7.0; 7.1; 7.2; 7.3; 7.4; 7.5; 7.6, 7.7;7.8; 7.9; 8.0; 8.1; 8.2; 8.3; 8.4; 8.5; 8.6; 8.7; 8.8; 8.9; 9.0; 9.1;9.2; 9.3; 9.4; 9.5; 9.6; 9.7; 9.8, 9.9; 10.0; 10.1; 10.2; 10.3; 10.4;10.5; 10.6 10.7; 10.8; 10.9; 11.0; 11.1; 11.2; 11.3; 11.4; 11.5; 11.6;11.7; 11.8; 11.9; 12.0; 12.1; 12.2; 12.3; 12.4; 12.5; 12.6; 12.7; 12.8,12.9; 13.0; 13.1; 13.2; 13.3; 13.4; 13.5; 13.6; 13.7; 13.8; 13.9; 14.0;14.1; 14.2; 14.3; 14.4; 14.5; 14.6; 14.7; 14.8; 14.9; 15.0; 15.5; 16.0;16.5; 17.0; 17.5; 18.0; 18.5; 19.0; 19.5; 20.0; 20.5; 21.0; 21.5; 22.0;22.5; 23.0; 23.5; 24.0; 24.5; 25.0; 25.5; 26.0; 26.5; 27.0; 27.5; 28.028.5; 29.0; 29.5; 30.0 30.5; 31.0; 32.0; 33.0; 34.0; 35.0; 36.0; 37.0;38.0; 39.0; 40.0; 41.0; 42.0; 43.0; 44.0; 45.0; 46.0; 47.0; 48.0; 49.0;or 50.0 mm. In one particular embodiment, the width is 4.5 mm. Inanother particular embodiment, the width is 6.5 mm.

The elongate body may comprise a textured surface or a partiallytextured surface. The textured or partially textured surface may becomprised on part or all of the elongate body. The part of elongate bodycomprising a textured or partially textured surface may comprise one ormore of the fenestration section; spacer; insert; linker; or anchorretaining section. The textured surface may be provided to increasefriction.

The plurality of fenestrations may be arranged in series along the bodylength of a fenestration section of the elongate body. Each of theplurality of fenestrations may comprise an elongate shape. The elongateshape may be oval, rectangular, or any other shape. Each fenestrationmay be large enough to receive at least part of one of the anchors. Eachfenestration may be membranous such that the fenestration membrane canbe penetrated by one or each of the anchors.

Each of the plurality of fenestrations may be defined by areinforcement. The reinforcement may comprise a bordering section ofthickened material. Neighbouring reinforcements may abut each other ormay be continuous with each other. The reinforcement may comprise athickness of 2.0 to 4.0 mm; 2.2 to 3.0 mm; or 2.3 to 2.5 mm. Thethickness may comprise 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6; 2.7; 2.8; 2.9;3.0; 3.1; 3.2; 3.3; 3.4; 3.5; 3.6; 3.7; 3.8; 3.9; or 4.0 mm. In aparticular embodiment, the thickness is 2.4 mm.

The elongate body may comprise one or more wall between neighbouring oneor more fenestrations of the plurality of fenestrations. The wall may bethinner than the reinforcement. The wall may comprise a thickness of 0.5to 5.5 mm; 0.7 to 4.0 mm; or 0.8 to 3.0 mm. The thickness may comprise0.5; 0.6; 0.7; 0.8; 0.9; 1.0; 1.1; 1.2; 1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8;1.9; 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6, 2.7; 2.8; 2.9; 3.0; 3.1; 3.2;3.3; 3.4; 3.5; 3.6; 3.7; 3.8; 3.9; 4.0; 4.1; 4.2; 4.3; 4.4; 4.5; 4.6;4.7; 4.8; 4.9; or 5.0 mm. In one particular embodiment, the thickness is1.0 mm. In another particular embodiment, the thickness is 2.4 mm.

The elongate body may comprise one or more spacer between the pluralityof fenestrations and the anchors. The one or more spacer may compriseone or both of an insert and one or more leash. The one or more spacermay comprise one or both of a lead spacer and tail spacer.

The elongate body may further comprise one or more linkers to attach toeach respective anchor. Each of the one or more linkers may comprise aclip.

Each of the one or more spacer may comprise a circular, ovoid, hexagonalor composite cross-sectional profile.

The elongate body may comprise one or more anchor retaining section. Theone or more anchor retaining section may comprise a lead end anchorretaining section and a tail end anchor retaining section. Each of theanchor retaining sections may comprise an appropriate thickness for theanchors to be inserted therein. The anchors may be inserted in parallelwith the elongate body, at an angle or offset from parallel. The anchorretaining section may comprise a one-way attachment for receiving theanchor.

Each anchor retaining section may comprise a thin flat segment and athicker base. The thin flat segment may be suitable for grasping. Thethicker base may be suitable for retaining an anchor.

In a particular embodiment, the elongate body is sufficiently flexibleto fold back or partly fold back on itself to allow at least a part ofan anchor to pass through a fenestration.

In another embodiment, one or both of the anchors may comprise acomplementary one-way attachment to be received in the anchor retainingsection one-way attachment. The one-way attachment and complementaryone-way attachment may comprise a male and female attachment.

Each anchor may comprise or consist of a hook. The hook may comprise anelongate segment, a curved segment, a point segment and a point. Theelongate section may comprise one or more retainers. Each of the one ormore retainers may comprise a coil or one or more barb. The hook maycurve in the plane of the elongate body, or at an angle to the elongatebody. The hook may curve perpendicularly to the plane of the elongatebody. The curved segment may comprise a 180° turn so the point extendsparallel to the elongate segment. The elongate segment may be linear ormay comprise one or more bend.

The stopper may comprise a region of the elongate body or anchor biggerthan at least one of the plurality of fenestrations. The stopper may becomprised on one or both anchors and/or at one or both ends of theelongate body. The stopper may be comprised on a lead anchor or a tailanchor or at only one end of the elongate body.

In another embodiment, the stopper may comprise one or more branches orprotrusions comprised on the elongate body or one or each of theanchors. The one or more branches may extend from the elongate segmentof the hook or the elongate body. The stopper may be comprised on a leadanchor or a tail anchor or at one end of the elongate body.

The stopper may be comprised on one or both anchor retaining section.

The at least a part of one of the anchors received in the fenestrationmay comprise the point segment.

The tail anchor point may be flat against, perpendicular, substantiallyperpendicular, extend obliquely, or extend at any angle to the elongatesegment of the tail hook or to the elongate body.

The anchor at each end may comprise a lead anchor and a tail anchor. Thelead anchor may comprise a guard. The guard may comprise a stem, anattachment point, a bend and a cap.

In a particular embodiment, the lead anchor and tail anchor are orientedin the same direction.

In another embodiment the anchors may comprise one or more of a tissueclasp, a suture needle, a “T” bar, a surgical grasper, a barbed needle,a clasp or a rivet assembly.

The elongate body may comprise a channel to accommodate the anchor. Thechannel may extend along part or all of a length between the pluralityof fenestrations and the tail anchor retaining section. The channel maybe defined by one or more leash. The one or more leash may comprise twoleashes defining the channel or one leash partly defining the channel.The two leashes may extend to either side of the anchor retainingsection. The single leash may extend to one side of the anchor retainingsection. When the one or more leash comprises a plurality of leashes,each leash may extend in parallel to the others. The one or more leashmay be comprised as part of one or more spacer.

In one particular embodiment the one or more spacer; insert; and/or oneor more leash may be more flexible than the fenestration section. Theone or more spacer; insert; and/or the one or more leash may be longenough to fold back or partly fold to allow at least a part of an anchorto pass through a fenestration.

The one or more spacer; insert; and/or one or more leash may comprise acircular, ovoid, hexagonal or composite cross sectional profile, or maycomprise a thread. The thread may comprise a suture thread.

Each hook or clasp may comprise a circular, ovoid, hexagonal, polygonalor composite cross-sectional profile.

The device may comprise a length of 5 to 35 cm; 10 to 25 cm; or 15 to 20cm. The device length may comprise 5; 6; 7; 8; 9; 10; 11; 12; 13; 14;15; 16; 17; 18; 19; 20; 21; 22; 23; 24; 25; 26; 27; 28; 29; 30; 31; 32;33; 34; or 35 cm. In one particular embodiment, the device lengthcomprises 17.0 cm. In another particular embodiment, the device lengthcomprises 17.7 cm.

The lead anchor and/or tail anchors may comprise a length of 0.5 to 3.0cm; 0.75 to 1.5 cm; or 0.80 to 1.25 cm. The lead anchor and/or tailanchors may comprise a length of 0.5; 0.6; 0.7; 0.8; 0.9; 1.0; 1.1; 1.2;1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8; 1.9; 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6,2.7; 2.8; 2.9 or 3.0 cm. In a particular embodiment, the lead anchorand/or tail anchor may comprise a length of 1.0 cm. In anotherparticular embodiment, the lead anchor and/or tail anchor may comprise alength of 1.65 cm.

One or more of the anchor retaining sections may comprise a length of0.5 to 2.5 cm; 1.0 to 2.0 cm; or 1.25 to 1.75 cm. The anchor retainingsections may comprise a length of 0.5; 0.6; 0.7; 0.8; 0.9; 1.0; 1.1;1.2; 1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8; 1.9; 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4 or 2.5cm. In a particular embodiment, the anchor retaining sections comprise alength of 1.5 cm. In another particular embodiment, the anchor retainingsections comprise a length of 1.55 cm.

The thickness of the insert may be approximately 0.5 to 3.5 mm; 0.75 to3.25 mm; or 1.0 to 3.0 mm. The thickness of the insert may be 0.5; 0.6;0.7; 0.8; 0.9; 1.0; 1.1; 1.2; 1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8; 1.9; 2.0;2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6; 2.7; 2.8; 2.9; 3.0; 3.1; 3.2; 3.3; 3.4; or3.5 mm. In one particular embodiment, the thickness of the insert is 1.2mm. In another particular embodiment, the thickness of the insert is 2.4mm.

The width of the insert may be approximately 1.0 to 8.0 mm; 1.5 to 7.5mm or 1.75 to 7.5 mm. The width of the insert may be 1.0; 1.1; 1.2; 1.3;1.4; 1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8; 1.9; 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6; 2.7;2.8; 2.9; 3.0; 3.1; 3.2; 3.3; 3.4; 3.5; 3.6; 3.7; 3.8; 3.9; 4.0; 4.1;4.2; 4.3; 4.4; 4.5; 4.6; 4.7; 4.8; 4.9; 5.0; 5.1; 5.2; 5.3; 5.4; 5.5;5.6; 5.7; 5.8; 5.9; 6.0; 6.1; 6.2; 6.3; 6.4; 6.5; 6.6; 6.7; 6.8; 6.9;7.0; 7.1; 7.2; 7.3; 7.4; 7.5; 7.6; 7.7; 7.8; 7.9; or 8.0 mm. In oneparticular embodiment, the width of the insert is 2.0 mm. In anotherparticular embodiment, the width of the insert is 6.5 mm.

The fenestration section may comprise a width of 3.5 to 8.0 mm; 4.0 to7.5 mm or 4.25 to 7.0 mm. The width may comprise 3.5; 3.6; 3.7; 3.75;3.8; 3.9; 4.0; 4.1; 4.2; 4.25; 4.3; 4.4; 4.5; 4.6; 4.7; 4.75; 4.8; 4.9;5.0; 5.1; 5.2; 5.3; 5.4; 5.5; 5.6; 5.7; 5.8; 5.9; 6.0; 6.1; 6.2; 6.3;6.4; 6.5; 6.6; 6.7; 6.8; 6.9; 7.0; 7.1; 7.2; 7.3; 7.4; 7.5; 7.6; 7.7;7.8; 7.9; or 8.0 mm. In a particular embodiment, the width of thefenestration section is 4.5 mm. In another particular embodiment, thewidth is 6.5 mm.

The distance from a lead end to a first fenestration may be 2.5 to 7.5cm; 3.0 to 7.0 cm; or 4.0 to 6.0 cm. The distance from a lead end to afirst fenestration may be 2.5; 2.6; 2.7; 2.8; 2.9; 3.0; 3.1; 3.2; 3.3;3.4; 3.5; 3.6; 3.7; 3.8; 3.9; 4.0; 4.1; 4.2; 4.3; 4.4; 4.5; 4.6; 4.7;4.8; 4.9; 5.0; 5.1; 5.2; 5.3; 5.4; 5.5; 5.6; 5.7; 5.8; 5.9 or 6.0 cm. Ina particular embodiment, the distance from a lead end to a firstfenestration is 4.5 cm.

The distance from a tail end to a final fenestration may be 3.0 to 7.0cm; 3.5 to 6.5 cm; or 4.0 to 5.0 cm. The distance from a tail end to afinal fenestration may be 3.0; 3.1; 3.2; 3.3; 3.4; 3.5; 3.6; 3.7; 3.8;3.9; 4.0; 4.1; 4.2; 4.3; 4.4; 4.5; 4.6; 4.7; 4.8; 4.9; 5.0; 5.1; 5.2;5.3; 5.4; 5.5; 5.6; 5.7; 5.8; 5.9; 6.0; 6.1; 6.2; 6.3; 6.4; 6.5; 6.6;6.7; 6.8; 6.9; or 7.0 cm. In one particular embodiment, the distancefrom a tail end to a final fenestration is 4.5 cm. In another particularembodiment, the distance from a tail end to a final fenestration is 5.0cm.

The width of the hooks may be approximately 0.4 to 1.5 mm.

The width of the hooks may be 0.4; 0.5; 0.6; 0.7; 0.8; 0.9; 1.0; 1.1;1.2; 1.3; 1.4; or 1.5 mm. In a particular embodiment the width of thehooks is 1.2 mm.

The elongate body may comprise one or more wings. The one or more wingmay be able to distribute force more evenly. The one or more wing maycomprise a width of 10.0 to 25.0 mm; 10.0 to 20.0 mm or 10.0 to 15.0 mm;or greater than 25.0 mm. The width of the wider section may be 10.0;11.0; 12.0; 13.0; 14.0; 15.0; 16.0; 17.0; 18.0; 19.0; 20.0; 21.0; 22.0;23.0; 24.0; or 25.0 mm.

The one or more wing may be at any section along the elongate bodylength. The length of the one or more wing may be equivalent to orshorter than the length of the elongate body; the length of thefenestration section; or the length of the spacer. The length of the oneor more wing may be 5.0 to 15.0 cm. The one or more wing length maycomprise 5; 6; 7; 8; 9; 10; 11; 12; 13; 14; or 15 cm. In a particularembodiment, the one or more wing may comprise 10.0 cm.

The one or more wing thickness may comprise 1.0 to 3.0 mm; 1.5 to 2.5 mmor 1.75 to 2.25 mm. The one or more wing thickness may be 1.0; 1.1; 1.2;1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8; 1.9; 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6;2.7; 2.8; 2.9 or 3.0 mm. In a particular embodiment, the one or morewing thickness is 2.0 mm.

The one or more wing may comprise an equivalent length or differinglengths.

In another embodiment, the surgical device comprises one or more branchelongate body, each of the one or more branch elongate body comprising aplurality of fenestrations along a branch elongate body length whereineach fenestration is sized to receive at least part of one of theanchors. The branch elongate body may comprise a branch anchor at eachend or at a branch end. The branch elongate body may extend from theelongate body and comprise an anchor at a branch end. The branchelongate body may extend from a spacer. The branch elongate body maycomprise a stopper preventing a tail end of the branch elongate bodybeing pulled through any of the plurality of fenestrations.

The branch elongate body may comprise the same features, shape anddimensions as the elongate body. The branch elongate body may comprise alead end and/or a tail end.

Each branch anchor may comprise the same features, shape and dimensionsas the lead anchor and/or the tail anchor.

The surgical device may comprise an X-shape; a Y-shape; a T-shape; anL-shape or an I-shape. The surgical device may comprise one, two, three,four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more than ten branchelongate bodies.

The surgical device may further comprise one or more bridge spanningbetween two or more branch elongate bodies and/or the elongate body. Thesurgical device may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, seven,eight, nine, ten, or more than bridges

In a particular embodiment the device is dimensioned so that it can beretrieved through a 5 mm port. The device may also be cut at the end ofuse such that it may be removed in sections.

The elongate body, one or more branch elongate body and one or morebridge may be comprised of silicone, any biocompatible syntheticmaterial or combination thereof.

The anchors may be comprised of silicone, metal, polycarbonate, anybiocompatible synthetic material or combination thereof. In a preferredembodiment each of the hooks are comprised of stainless steel wire.

Another embodiment may comprise a tail anchor at each end, that is, bothanchors may engage with fenestrations along the elongate body.

In a second aspect, the invention provides a method of manufacturing asurgical device for retraction of a body part, the method comprising:

-   -   forming an elongate body comprising a plurality of fenestrations        along a body length wherein each fenestration is sized to        receive at least part of one of the anchors; and    -   attaching an anchor to each end of the surgical device;    -   wherein the surgical device comprises a stopper preventing the        tail end of the device being pulled through any of the plurality        of fenestrations.

The method may further comprise attaching one or more branch elongatebody.

The method may further comprise attaching one or more bridge spanningbetween two or more branch elongate bodies and/or the elongate body.

The method for manufacturing the first embodiment of the device of theinvention may be carried out by using techniques known in the field ofsilicone injection moulding and surgical needle and/or suturemanufacture.

The surgical device manufactured according to the second aspect maycomprise the surgical device of the first aspect.

In a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method forinserting the first embodiment of the invention into an incision in apatient, the method comprising the steps of:

inserting a surgical trocar into the incision;

grasping one anchor and inserting it beyond a seal within the trocar,then feeding the elongate body of the device into the trocar, followedby the other anchor;

inserting the lead anchor onto a first site;

straightening out the body of the retractor against the organ to beretracted; and

inserting the tail anchor through an appropriate fenestration along theelongate body, and thereon into the site of the second anchorage.

The invention also provides a kit comprising the device of the inventionand a vacuum retractor. The device of the invention and the vacuumretractor provide complementary retraction.

Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should inno way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely knownor forms part of the common general knowledge in the field.

As used herein, except where the context requires otherwise, the term“comprise” and variations of the term, such as “comprising”, “comprises”and “comprised”, are not intended to exclude further additives,components, integers or steps.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In order that the present invention may be readily understood and putinto practical effect, reference will now be made to the accompanyingillustrations, wherein like reference numerals refer to like features.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a side view of one embodiment of adevice according to the invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a top view of the embodiment shownin FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view along section shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view along section IV-IV shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view along section V-V shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is a detailed view of region VI shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a top perspective view of theembodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a bottom top perspective view ofthe embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram showing another embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 9B is a schematic diagram showing the lead anchor according to theembodiment shown in FIG. 9A.

FIGS. 10A and 10B show an embodiment of the invention in use.

FIG. 11A is a schematic diagram showing a surgical device comprisingwings along the length of the fenestration section according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11B is a schematic diagram showing wings along part of the spaceraccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12A is a schematic diagram showing a Y shaped surgical deviceaccording to one embodiment of the invention comprising one branchelongate body.

FIG. 12B is a schematic diagram showing an X shaped embodiment accordingto one embodiment of the invention comprising two branch elongatebodies.

FIG. 12C is a schematic diagram showing a Y shaped surgical deviceincorporating two bridges according to one embodiment of the inventioncomprising one branch elongate body.

FIG. 12D is a schematic diagram showing a Y shaped surgical devicecomprising wings.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the anchor retaining sectionbeing grasped by a laparoscopic grasper.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing a coiled retainer according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing thickened side rims andreinforcement according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 shows a single leash according to another embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing a side view of another embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a top view of the embodimentshown in FIG. 17.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a surgical device forretraction of a body part.

The retractor of the invention varies the length between two anchorpoints in a novel manner, by having “fenestrations” or loops along partof the length of the span, through which one of the anchors can beinserted. The anchor which is inserted through a selected fenestrationor window must have a stopper or stopping portion which prevents thewindow sliding over the anchor.

FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of a surgical device 100 for retraction of abody part according to the invention. The device 100 comprises an anchor140, 170 at each end of the surgical device and an elongate body 110.

The elongate body 110 comprises a plurality of fenestrations 112 alongthe body length. To achieve the effect of an adjustable length, eachfenestration 112 is sized to receive at least part of one of the anchors140, 170.

The elongate body 110 comprises a head end 102 and a tail end 104 andcomprises a strip shape or substantially a strip shape and comprises atop surface 114 and a bottom surface 116. The top 114 and bottomsurfaces 116 may be flat or substantially flat. The elongate body 110also comprises rounded edges 118 between the top 114 and bottom surfaces116.

In other embodiments, the elongate body 110 comprises a round, ovoid orother shape. From the teaching herein, the skilled person is able toselect other suitable shapes for elongate body 110. The elongate body110 may be substantially planar in cross-sectional profile.

FIGS. 13 and 15 show an embodiment in which elongate body 110 comprisesside rims 119. The side rims 119 have an increased thickness compared tothe remainder of elongate body 110. The side rims 119 comprise athickness of 2.0 to 3.0 mm; 2.2 to 2.6 mm; or 2.3 to 2.5 mm. Thethickness may comprise 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6; 2.7; 2.8; 2.9or 3.0 mm. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 and 15, the thickness ofside rims 119 is 2.4 mm.

The elongate body 110 may comprise a width of 2.0 to 50.0 mm; 4.0 to25.0 mm or 5.0 to 20.0 mm. The width may comprise 2.0; 2.5; 3.0; 3.5;4.0; 4.5; 5.0; 5.1; 5.2; 5.3; 5.4; 5.5; 5.6; 5.7; 5.8; 5.9; 6.0; 6.1;6.2; 6.3; 6.4; 6.5; 6.6; 6.7; 6.8; 6.9; 7.0; 7.1; 7.2; 7.3; 7.4; 7.5;7.6, 7.7; 7.8; 7.9; 8.0; 8.1; 8.2; 8.3; 8.4; 8.5; 8.6; 8.7; 8.8; 8.9;9.0; 9.1; 9.2; 9.3; 9.4; 9.5; 9.6; 9.7; 9.8, 9.9; 10.0; 10.1; 10.2;10.3; 10.4; 10.5; 10.6 10.7; 10.8; 10.9; 11.0; 11.1; 11.2; 11.3; 11.4;11.5; 11.6; 11.7; 11.8; 11.9; 12.0; 12.1; 12.2; 12.3; 12.4; 12.5; 12.6;12.7; 12.8, 12.9; 13.0; 13.1; 13.2; 13.3; 13.4; 13.5; 13.6; 13.7; 13.8;13.9; 14.0; 14.1; 14.2; 14.3; 14.4; 14.5; 14.6; 14.7; 14.8; 14.9; 15.0;15.5; 16.0; 16.5; 17.0; 17.5; 18.0; 18.5; 19.0; 19.5; 20.0; 20.5; 21.0;21.5; 22.0; 22.5; 23.0; 23.5; 24.0; 24.5; 25.0; 25.5; 26.0; 26.5; 27.0;27.5; 28.0 28.5; 29.0; 29.5; 30.0 30.5; 31.0; 32.0; 33.0; 34.0; 35.0;36.0; 37.0; 38.0; 39.0; 40.0; 41.0; 42.0; 43.0; 44.0; 45.0; 46.0; 47.0;48.0; 49.0; or 50.0 mm. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 thewidth is 4.5 mm, while in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 to 18 thewidth is 6.5 mm.

Although the elongate body 110 is shown to have a smooth surface, inother embodiments, the elongate body 110 may comprise one or moretextured or partially textured surface. The textured or partiallytextured surface may be comprised on part or all of the elongate body110 or one or more part thereof such as, fenestration section 111;spacer 124; insert; 125; one or more leash 126; or anchor retainingsection 134. Advantageously, the textured surface or partially texturedsurface may be provided to increase friction.

The plurality of fenestrations 112 are arranged in series along the bodylength in fenestration section 111 of elongate body 110. Each of theplurality of fenestrations 112 may comprise an elongate shape. Althoughthe plurality of fenestrations 112 are shown to comprise an oval shape,other shapes may be used, such as a rectangular shape. The shape neednot be elongate, only large enough for part of one of the anchors 140,170 to pass through it as a minimum.

Importantly, each fenestration 112 is large enough receive at least partof one of the anchors 140, 170.

Each of the plurality of fenestrations 112 are defined or partly definedby a reinforcement 120. The reinforcement 120 may comprise a borderingsection of thickened material. As shown in FIG. 6, neighbouringreinforcements 120 may abut each other. FIG. 15 shows another embodimentin which neighbouring reinforcements 120 are continuous with oneanother.

The reinforcement 120 may have the same thickness as the side rims 119and may comprise a thickness of 2.0 to 4.0 mm; 2.2 to 3.0 mm; or 2.3 to2.5 mm. The thickness may comprise 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6;2.7; 2.8; 2.9; 3.0; 3.1; 3.2; 3.3; 3.4; 3.5; 3.6; 3.7; 3.8; 3.9 or 4.0mm. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 the thickness is 2.4 mm.

Although not shown, one or more of the plurality of fenestrations 112may be membranous, such that the fenestration membrane 113 (not shown)covering the fenestration 112 can be penetrated by one or each of theanchors 140, 170.

In other embodiments, the elongate body 110 may comprise one or morewall 122 between neighbouring fenestrations 112. The wall 122 may bethinner than the reinforcement 120. The wall 122 may comprise athickness of 0.5 to 5.0 mm; 0.7 to 4.0 mm; or 0.8 to 3.0 mm. Thethickness may comprise 0.5; 0.6; 0.7; 0.8; 0.9; 1.0; 1.1; 1.2; 1.3; 1.4;1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8; 1.9; 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6, 2.7; 2.8;2.9; 3.0; 3.1; 3.2; 3.3; 3.4; 3.5; 3.6; 3.7; 3.8; 3.9; 4.0; 4.1; 4.2;4.3; 4.4; 4.5; 4.6; 4.7; 4.8; 4.9; or 5.0 mm. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 13 and 15, the thickness of wall 122 is 1.0 mm. In the embodimentshown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the thickness of wall 122 is 2.4 mm.

FIGS. 1 and 2 show the elongate body 110 to comprise twelvefenestrations 112 a,b,c,d,e,f,g,h,i,j,k,l. From the teachings herein askilled person is readily able to select other suitable number offenestrations.

In a particular embodiment, the elongate body 110 is sufficientlyflexible to fold back or partly fold back on itself. The elongate body110 is sufficiently flexible or substantially flexible so that it can bebent or folded to allow at least a part of tail anchor 170 to passthrough a fenestration 112 to allow the anchor 170 to attach to tissue.The selection of which fenestration 112 a,b,c,d,e,f,g,h,i,j,k,l topenetrate allows the length of device 100 to be customised. That is, iftail anchor 170 is passed through fenestration 112 a, the device 100anchored at both or each anchor 140 and tail anchor 170, will have ashorter length than if tail anchor were to be passed throughfenestration 112 b, or any other fenestration 112 c,d,e,f,g,h,i,j,k,l.

FIG. 1 shows the elongate body 110 to comprise a spacer 124 between theplurality of fenestrations and each of the lead anchor 140 and the tailanchor 170. In other embodiments, the elongate body 110 may comprise aspacer 124 b between only the plurality of fenestrations 112 and thetail anchor 170, a spacer 124 a between only the plurality offenestrations 112 and the lead anchor 140, or no spacer 124. When thereis no spacer 124, the fenestration section 111 connects directly to theanchor 140, 170.

In FIG. 1, lead spacer 124 a is comprised solely of insert 125 a, whiletail spacer 124 b comprises both insert 125 b and leashes 132 b.

In FIG. 1, leashes 132 b are shown to comprise a circular cross-sectionprofile, while insert 125 comprises a thread shape. In otherembodiments, spacer 124 may comprise an ovoid, hexagonal, polygonal orcomposite cross-sectional profile. From the teaching herein, a skilledperson is readily able to select a suitable cross-sectional profileshape for inserts 124 and one or more leashes 132.

Lead spacer 124 a is shown in FIG. 1 to be a solid unitary lengthcomprising an insert 125. Tail spacer 124 b comprises both insert 125 band one or more leash 132 b defining one or more orifice or channel 128.From the teaching herein a skilled person is readily able to selectother suitable forms for spacers 124.

The channel 128 may accommodate the tail anchor 170. The channel 128 mayextend along part or all of a length between the plurality offenestrations 112 and the tail anchor retaining section 134 b. Thechannel 128 may be defined by one or more leash 132. In the embodimentshown in FIG. 2, channel 128 is defined by two leashes 132 b. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 17, channel 128 is partly defined by a singleleash 132 extending on one side. The leashes 132 may extend to eitherside of the anchor retaining section 134 a,b. When only a single leash132 is present, single leash 132 extends to one side of the anchorretaining section 134 a,b.

Like spacer 124, insert 125 and one or more leash 132 may have anysuitable cross-sectional profile shape, such as, circular, ovoid,hexagonal, polygonal or composite. The spacer 124; insert 125 and one ormore leash 132 may comprise a thread such as a surgical thread.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 17 and 18, channel 128 accommodates tail hook172. In other embodiments, channel 128 may accommodate a clasp or othercomponent of anchor 140, 170.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 tail spacer 124 comprises twoseparate leashes 132 b. The separate leashes 132 b extend in paralleland attach to different sides of tail anchor retaining section 134 blike a swing.

In one embodiment, the one or more spacer 124; insert 125; and or one ormore leash 132 may be more flexible than the fenestration section 111.The one or more spacer 124; insert 125; and/or one or more leash 132 maybe long enough to fold back or partly fold to allow at least a part ofan anchor 140, 170 to pass through a fenestration 112. This embodimentmay advantageously provide a less flexible elongate body 110 that isbetter able to provide an increased level of support for retraction. Theone or more spacer 124; insert 125; and/or one or more leash 132 mayprovide a line providing freedom of movement of the tail anchor.

Although not shown, elongate body 110 may also comprise one or morelinker 126 (not shown) to attach to one or both of anchors 140,170.Linkers 126 may comprise a clip or other suitable connection orfastener. From the description herein, a skilled person is readily ableto select other suitable linkers 126.

The elongate body 110 also comprises anchor retaining sections 134. Theanchor retaining sections 134 comprise a head end anchor retainingsection 134 a and a tail end anchor retaining section 134 b. Each of theanchor retaining sections 134 a,134 b comprise an appropriate thicknessfor the anchors 140, 170 to be inserted therein. The anchors 140, 170may be inserted in parallel with the elongate body 110, at an angle oroffset from parallel. The anchor retaining sections 134 a,134 b maycomprise a one-way attachment for receiving the anchor 140,170.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 and 16, anchor retaining sections134 comprise a thin flat segment 135 and a thicker base 137. The thinflat segment 135 may be suitable for grasping. The thicker base 137 maybe suitable for retaining an anchor.

As shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, different components of the elongate body110 may comprise different profiles. As shown in FIG. 3, the anchorretaining section 134 comprises a hexagonal profile and the width is 4.3mm across the flat and 4.9 mm across the points. As shown in FIG. 4, theleashes 132 comprise a circular or ovoid profile and each leash 132comprises a width of 1.0 mm and a thickness of 1.1 mm. As shown in FIG.5 the fenestration section 111 comprises an ovoid profile and has awidth of 1.6 min. In other embodiments the fenestration section 111 maycomprise a hexagonal profile.

FIG. 6 shows a detailed view of part of fenestration section 11including one fenestration 112. Each fenestration 112 a-1 has a lengthof 5.0 mm and a width of 1.5 mm. Based on the teaching herein a skilledperson is readily able to select other suitable sizes for fenestrations112 and anchors 140, 170.

The anchors 140, 170 may be a simple design. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2,the anchors 140, 170 may be attached to the elongate body 110 directlyby being inserted into the material of the anchor retaining section 134a,134 b to retain anchors 140, 170 within the device 100. The anchors140, 170 comprise one or more retainers 152, 182 which engage withelongate body 110. FIGS. 13, 14 and 16 show retainers 152, 182 tocomprise coils that are wound or moulded into elongate body 110. Inother embodiments retainers 152, 182 may comprise one or more retentionbarbs (see FIGS. 9A and B).

Each anchor 140, 170 may comprise or consist of a hook 142, 172. Thehooks 142, 172 may comprise an elongate segment 144,174; a curvedsegment 146,176; a point segment 148,178; and a point 150,180. Theelongate sections 144, 174 may comprise one or more stopper 130comprising branches or protrusions 154,184 (see FIG. 9). The one or morestopper branches or protrusions 154,184 may extend from the elongatesegment 144, 174.

The elongate segment 144,174 may be linear or may comprise one or morebends 145, 175. The bends 145,175, when present, assist in orienting theanchor 140,170 for ease of placement. The curved segment 146, 176 maycomprise a 180° turn so the point extends parallel to the elongatesegment.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13, 16, 17 and 18, hooks 142, 172 curvein the plane of the elongate body 110. This is advantageous because itkeeps hooks 142, 172 flat in packaging and renders perforation lesslikely. In other embodiments, hooks 142, 172 curve at an angle to theelongate body 110. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2hooks 142, 172 curve perpendicularly to the plane of elongate body 110.

In another embodiment, one or both of the anchors 140, 170 may comprisea complementary one-way attachment (not shown) to be received in theanchor retaining section one-way attachment (not shown). The one-wayattachment and complementary one-way attachment may comprise male andfemale attachments.

The anchors 140, 170 may be comprised of silicone, metal orpolycarbonate. In the embodiment shown in the Figures the anchors 140,170 are comprised of stainless steel wire.

As is apparent from above, the stopper 130 which prevents the tail end104 from being pulled through any of the plurality of fenestrations 112may comprise a region of the elongate body 110 larger than the width ofthe fenestration 112 such as, anchor retaining section 134 a,b in theembodiment shown in FIG. 1. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 17 and 18,stopper 130 comprises a branch or protrusion 131 extending from anchorretaining section 134 a, 134 b.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the stopper 130 comprisesone or more branches or protrusions 154 comprised on one or each of theanchors 140, 170. The one or more branches or protrusions 154 may extendfrom the elongate segment 144, 174 of the hook 140,170. The elongatesegment 144,174 may be linear or may comprise one or more bend.

The stopper 130 may be comprised on one or both anchors 140, 170 or atone or both ends 136, 138 of elongate body 110. In other embodiments,stopper 130 may only be comprised on a lead anchor 140 or a tail anchor170 or at only one of end 136, 138.

The at least a part of one of the anchors received in the fenestration112 may comprise the point segment 148, 178 to allow the anchoring.

The anchor points 150,180 may extend at any angle. Anchor points 150,180may be flat against, perpendicular, substantially perpendicular, extendobliquely or extend at an angle to the elongate segment 144,174 of thetail hook 172 or to the elongate body 110.

FIG. 9A, shows an embodiment in which lead 170 anchor comprises a guard156. The guard 156 comprises a stem 158, an attachment point 160, a bend162 and a cap 164. In other embodiments, anchors 140, 170 may beidentical, with or without a guard 156.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the lead anchor 140 and tail anchor170 are oriented in the same direction. This orientation can also beclearly seen in the perspective top and bottom views of FIGS. 7 and 8.As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B when the elongate body 110 is folded, sothat tail anchor 170 can pass through a fenestration 112, thisorientation of anchors 140,170 is most suitable for deployment.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 1, also shows elongate body 110 to comprisea channel 128 to accommodate the tail hook 172. The channel 128 mayextend along part or all of a length between the end of the plurality offenestrations 112 and the tail anchor 170.

Although the invention has been described with reference to hooks 142,in other embodiments the anchors may comprise one or more of a tissueclasp, a suture needle, a “T” bar, a surgical grasper, a barbed needle,a clasp or a rivet assembly.

The device 100 may comprise a length of 5 to 35 cm; 10 to 25 cm; or 15to 20 cm. The device 100 length may comprise 5; 6; 7; 8; 9; 10; 11; 12;13; 14; 15; 16; 17; 18; 19; 20; 21; 22; 23; 24; 25; 26; 27; 28; 29; 30;31; 32; 33; 34 or 35 cm. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the device100 length comprises 17 cm. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, thedevice 100 length comprises 17.7 cm.

The lead anchor 140 and/or tail anchors 170 may comprise a length of 0.5to 3.0 cm; 0.75 to 1.5 cm; or 0.80 to 1.25 cm. The lead anchor 140and/or tail anchors 170 may comprise a length of 0.5; 0.6; 0.7; 0.8;0.9; 1.0; 1.1; 1.2; 1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8; 1.9; 2.0; 2.1; 2.2;2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6, 2.7; 2.8; 2.9 or 3.0 cm. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 the lead anchor 140 and/or tail anchor 170 comprise a length of1.0 cm.

One or both of the anchor retaining sections 134 a,b may comprise alength of 0.5 to 2.5 cm; 1.0 to 2.0 cm; or 1.25 to 1.75 cm. The leadand/or tail anchor retaining sections 134 a,b may comprise a length of0.5; 0.6; 0.7; 0.8; 0.9; 1.0; 1.1; 1.2; 1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8;1.9; 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4 or 2.5 cm. In the embodiment shown in FIG.1 anchor retaining sections may comprise a length of 1.5 cm. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 17, the anchor retaining sections comprise alength of 1.55 cm.

The thickness of the insert 125 may be approximately 0.5 to 3.5 mm; 0.75to 3.25 mm; or 1.0 to 3.0 mm. The thickness of the insert 125 may be0.5; 0.6; 0.7; 0.8; 0.9; 1.0; 1.1; 1.2; 1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8;1.9; 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6; 2.7; 2.8; 2.9; 3.0; 3.1; 3.2;3.3; 3.4; or 3.5 min. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the thicknessof the insert 125 is 1.2 mm. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, thethickness of the insert 125 is 2.4 mm.

The width of the insert 125 may be approximately 1.0 to 8.0 mm; 1.5 to7.5 mm or 1.75 to 7.5 mm. The width of the insert 125 may be 1.0; 1.1;1.2; 1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8; 1.9; 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5;2.6; 2.7; 2.8; 2.9; 3.0; 3.1; 3.2; 3.3; 3.4; 3.5; 3.6; 3.7; 3.8; 3.9;4.0; 4.1; 4.2; 4.3; 4.4; 4.5; 4.6; 4.7; 4.8; 4.9; 5.0; 5.1; 5.2; 5.3;5.4; 5.5; 5.6; 5.7; 5.8; 5.9; 6.0; 6.1; 6.2; 6.3; 6.4; 6.5; 6.6; 6.7;6.8; 6.9; 7.0; 7.1; 7.2; 7.3; 7.4; 7.5; 7.6; 7.7; 7.8; 7.9; or 8.0 mm.In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the width of the insert 125 is 2.0mm. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the width of the insert 125 is6.5 mm.

The fenestration section 111 may comprise a width of 3.5 to 8.0 mm; 4.0to 7.5 mm or 4.25 to 7.00 mm. The fenestration section 111 may comprisea width of 3.5; 3.6; 3.7; 3.75; 3.8; 3.9; 4.0; 4.1; 4.2; 4.25; 4.3; 4.4;4.5; 4.6; 4.7; 4.75; 4.8; 4.9; 5.0; 5.1; 5.2; 5.3; 5.4; 5.5; 5.6; 5.7;5.8; 5.9; 6.0; 6.1; 6.2; 6.3; 6.4; 6.5; 6.6; 6.7; 6.8; 6.9; 7.0; 7.1;7.2; 7.3; 7.4; 7.5; 7.6; 7.7; 7.8; 7.9; or 8.0 mm. In the embodimentsshown in FIGS. 1 and 2 the width of the fenestration section 111 is 4.5mm. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 the width is 6.5 mm.

The distance from a lead end 136 to a first fenestration 112 a may be2.5 to 7.5 cm; 3.0 to 7.0 cm; or 4.0 to 6.0 cm. The distance from a leadend 136 to a first fenestration 112 a may be 2.5; 2.6; 2.7; 2.8; 2.9;3.0; 3.1; 3.2; 3.3; 3.4; 3.5; 3.6; 3.7; 3.8; 3.9; 4.0; 4.1; 4.2; 4.3;4.4; 4.5; 4.6; 4.7; 4.8; 4.9; 5.0; 5.1; 5.2; 5.3; 5.4; 5.5; 5.6; 5.7;5.8; 5.9 or 6.0 cm. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 thedistance from a lead end 126 to a first fenestration 112 a is 4.5 mm.

The distance from a tail end 138 to a final fenestration 1121 may be 3.0to 7.0 cm; 3.5 to 6.5 cm; or 4.0 to 5.0 cm. The distance from a tail end138 to a final fenestration 1121 may be 3.0; 3.1; 3.2; 3.3; 3.4; 3.5;3.6; 3.7; 3.8; 3.9; 4.0; 4.1; 4.2; 4.3; 4.4; 4.5; 4.6; 4.7; 4.8; 4.9;5.0; 5.1; 5.2; 5.3; 5.4; 5.5; 5.6; 5.7; 5.8; 5.9; 6.0; 6.1; 6.2; 6.3;6.4; 6.5; 6.6; 6.7; 6.8; 6.9; or 7.0 cm. In the embodiment shown in FIG.1 the distance from a tail end 138 to a final fenestration 1121 is 4.5mm. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17 the distance is 5.0 cm.

The width of the hooks 142, 172 may be approximately 0.4 to 1.5 mm. Thewidth of the hooks 142, 172 may be 0.4; 0.5; 0.6; 0.7; 0.8; 0.9; 1.0;1.1; 1.2; 1.3; 1.4; or 1.5 mm. In a particular embodiment the width ofthe hooks 142, 172 is less than 0.7 mm.

The elongate body 110 may comprise one or more wing 190. The one or morewing 190 may be able to distribute force more evenly. The one or morewing 190 may comprise a length of 5.0 to 15.0 cm. The one or more winglength may comprise 5; 6; 7; 8; 9; 10; 11; 12; 13; 14; or 15 cm.

The one or more wing thickness may comprise 1.0 to 3.0; 1.5 to 2.5 mm;or 1.75 to 2.25 mm. The one or more wing thickness may be 1.0; 1.1; 1.2;1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.6; 1.7; 1.8; 1.9; 2.0; 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5; 2.6;2.7; 2.8; 2.9 or 3.0 min. In a particular embodiment, the one or morewing thickness is 2.0 mm.

From the teaching herein, the size of the one or more wing 190 can beselected by a skilled person according to the intended organ size to beretracted. A range of sizes may be offered for the surgeon to choosefrom. The one or more wing 190 may serve to distribute pressure over awider area and therefore are positioned along the section of theelongate body 110 being applied against the organ retracted.

The one or more wing 190 may comprise an equivalent length or differinglengths.

FIGS. 11A and 11B shown device 100 to comprise bilateral wings 190. Inthe embodiment shown in FIG. 11A, bilateral wings 190 extend on eitherside of elongate body 110 and traverse the full length of thefenestration section 111. In FIG. 11B, bilateral wings 190 extend onlypart of the length of the one or more spacer 124.

Wings 190 may be at any section along the elongate body 110 length. Thelength of the one or more wing 190 may be equivalent to or shorter thanthe length of the elongate body 110; the length of the fenestrationsection 111; or the length of the one or more spacer 124.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the bilateral wings 190comprise an equivalent length. In other embodiments, the wings 190 maybe of differing lengths.

These wings 190 effectively represent variable widths of the elongatebody 110.

While the wings 190 are, like elongate body 110, sufficiently flexibleto fold back or partly fold back on themselves, they provide anincreased surface area to better distribute force.

FIGS. 12A and 12B show embodiments of surgical device 100 comprising oneor more branch elongate body 210. FIG. 12A shows a Y-shaped embodimentin which a single branch elongate body 210 extends from spacer 124. FIG.12B shows an X-shaped embodiment in which a single branch elongate body210, comprising branch lead anchor 240 and branch tail anchor 270, isjoined to the elongate body 110 at their spacers 124, 224.

The branch elongate body 210 may comprise the same features, shape anddimensions as the elongate body 110. The branch elongate body 210 maycomprise a branch head end 202 and a branch tail end 204.

Each of the one or more branch elongate body 210 may comprise aplurality of fenestrations 112 along a branch elongate body 210 lengthwherein each fenestration 112 is sized to receive at least part of oneof the anchors 140, 170, 240, 270. The branch elongate body 210 maycomprise a branch anchor 240, 270 at each branch end 202, 204. Thebranch elongate body 210 may extend from the elongate body 110 andcomprise a branch anchor 240, 270 at a branch end 202, 204. The branchelongate body 210 may extend from a spacer 124, 224. The branch elongatebody 210 may comprise a stopper 230 (not shown) preventing a tail end238 of the branch elongate body 210 being pulled through any of theplurality of fenestrations 211.

Each branch anchor 240, 270 may comprise the same features, shape anddimensions as the lead anchor 140 and/or the tail anchor 170.

As well as the illustrated X- and Y-shapes the surgical device 100 maycomprise a T-shape; an L-shape or an I-shape. The surgical device 100may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten,or more than ten branch elongate bodies 210. From the teaching herein, askilled person will recognise that the larger embodiments will not fitthrough a 5 mm port and will require insertion and removal through alarger port.

FIG. 12C shows an embodiment of surgical device 100 comprising twobridges 121 spanning between branch elongate body 210 and elongate body110. One or more bridge 210 may also span between two branch elongatebodies 210. The surgical device 110 may comprise one, two, three, four,five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more than bridges 121.

FIG. 12D shows an embodiment of surgical device 100 comprising bothbilateral wings 190 and a branch elongate body 210.

In a particular embodiment the device 100 is dimensioned so that is canbe retrieved through a 5 mm port. Advantageously, device 100 may be cutat the end of use such that it may be removed in sections.

The elongate body 110, one or more branch elongate body 210, bridges 121and anchors 140, 170 may be comprised of silicone, any biocompatiblesynthetic material or combination thereof. The elongate body may beinjection moulded.

The anchors 140, 170 may also be comprised of metal, polycarbonate, anybiocompatible synthetic material or combination thereof.

FIG. 13 shows the ease of grip of provided by anchor retaining section123 and thin flat segment 135.

FIG. 15 shows a detailed view of the fenestration section 111 accordingto one embodiment. In this embodiment, reinforcement 120 is joined tothe side rims 119. The thinner wall 122 is also shown.

FIG. 16 shows a detailed view of a tail anchor retaining section 134 bshowing the flat segment 135 for grasping and the rounded base 137 forretaining anchor 170. The insertion of the coiled anchor 170 (as shownin FIG. 14) into the rounded base 137 through the flat segment 135 canalso bee seen.

FIGS. 17 and 18 show a current prototype of device 100. The features ofa single leash 132 and stopper branches or protrusions 131 disposed onthe anchor retaining sections 134 a, 134 b are shown. The anchors 140,170 comprise U-shaped hooks 142, 172 that comprise sharpened groundends. The hooks 142, 172 are retained as shown with reference to FIGS.16 and 17.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 17 also lacks a lead spacer 124 a, with thefenestration section 111 directly connected to the anchor retainingsection 134 a. Tail spacer 124 b comprises insert 125 and single leash132.

There are at least two advantages of having anchors 140, 170 oriented inthe same direction. First, as the retractor 100 “bends over” above thepoint where a window is selected, the tail hook 172 is then in thecorrect orientation to engage with the selected fenestration 112.Second, when removing the device 100 through a 5 mm port, the lead hook142 may be grasped by a laparoscopic grasper, and withdrawn through theport or trocar. The lead hook 142 will not catch as the point 150 ispointing backwards. As the tail anchor 170 engages within the 5 mm port,because the tail anchor retaining section 134 into which the tail hook172 is engaged is substantially cylindrical (even though hexagonal) andjust smaller than the trocar diameter, the point 180 will still bepointing backwards.

When elongate body 110 comprises two leashes 132 (see FIG. 2). The twoleashes 132 extend in parallel and attach to different sides of tailhook 172. When there are two leashes 132 this will help stretch out theseal on the 5 mm port to allow the tail anchor 170 to pass. Even if thisdoes not work with a 5 mm port/trocar due to the seal, it should workwith a 5 mm diameter tube inserted through the 5 mm trocar. This is inrecognition that the diameters given for laparoscopic trocars generallyreflect the size of instruments they accept, not their actual diameter.

These advantages are shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B which illustrate thefolding of elongate body 110 so that tail anchor 170 can pass through afenestration 112 and be secured. By selecting an appropriatefenestration 112 a-1, the length of the device 100 can be tailored asrequired.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method of manufacturing asurgical device 100 for retraction of a body part, the methodcomprising: forming an elongate body 110 comprising a plurality offenestrations 112 along a body length wherein each fenestration 112a-1121 is sized to receive at least part of one of the anchors 140, 170;attaching an anchor 140, 170 at each end 102, 104 of the surgical device100; wherein the surgical device 100 comprises a stopper 130 preventingthe tail end 104 of the device 100 being pulled through any of theplurality of fenestrations 112 a-1121.

The method for manufacturing the device 100 of the invention may becarried out by using techniques known in the field of silicone injectionmoulding and surgical needle and/or suture manufacture.

In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method forinserting device 100 into an incision in a patient, the methodcomprising the steps of: inserting a surgical trocar into the incision;grasping one anchor 140,170 and inserting it beyond a seal within thetrocar, then feeding the elongate body 110 of the device 100 into thetrocar, followed by the second anchor 170,140, taking care to avoid ahook 142,172 catching on the seal; inserting the lead anchor 140 onto afirst site; straightening out the body 110 of the retractor 100 againstthe organ to be retracted; and inserting the tail anchor 170 through anappropriate fenestration 112 a-1121 along the elongate body 110, andthereon into the site of the second anchorage.

The invention also provides a kit 300 (not shown) comprising the device100 of the invention and a vacuum retractor. The device of the inventionand the vacuum retractor provide complementary retraction.

In this specification, the terms “comprises”, “comprising” or similarterms are intended to mean a non-exclusive inclusion, such that anapparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include thoseelements solely, but may well include other elements not listed.

Throughout the specification the aim has been to describe the inventionwithout limiting the invention to any one embodiment or specificcollection of features. Persons skilled in the relevant art may realizevariations from the specific embodiments that will nonetheless fallwithin the scope of the invention.

The claims defining the invention are as follows:
 1. A surgical devicefor retraction of a body part comprising: an anchor at each end of thesurgical device; an elongate body comprising a plurality offenestrations along a body length wherein each fenestration is sized toreceive at least part of one of the anchors; a channel comprised in theelongate body, the channel accommodating one of the anchors and thechannel extending along part or all of a length between an end of theplurality of fenestrations and an anchor retaining section in which theaccommodated anchor is retained within; and a stopper preventing a tailend of the device being pulled through any of the plurality offenestrations.
 2. The surgical device of claim 1 wherein the elongatebody comprises side rims.
 3. The surgical device of claim 1 wherein theelongate body comprises a textured surface or a partially texturedsurface.
 4. The surgical device of claim 1 wherein the plurality offenestrations is arranged in series along the body length of afenestration section of the elongate body.
 5. The surgical device ofclaim 1 wherein the elongate body comprises one or more wall betweenneighbouring one or more fenestrations of the plurality offenestrations.
 6. The surgical device of claim 1 wherein the elongatebody comprises one or more spacer between the plurality of fenestrationsand the anchors.
 7. The surgical device of claim 6 wherein the one ormore spacer comprises one or both of an insert and one or more leash. 8.The surgical device of claim 1 wherein the elongate body is sufficientlyflexible to fold back or partly fold back on itself to allow at least apart of an anchor to pass through a fenestration.
 9. The surgical deviceof claim 1 wherein the stopper comprises a region of the elongate bodyor anchor.
 10. The surgical device of claim 1 wherein the elongate bodycomprises one or more wings.
 11. The surgical device of claim 1 whereinthe elongate body comprises one or more branches.
 12. The surgicaldevice of claim 1 wherein the anchor at each end are oriented in a samedirection.
 13. The surgical device of claim 1 wherein the fenestrationincludes a reinforcement comprising a bordering section of thickenedmaterial.
 14. The surgical device of claim 1 wherein the elongate bodycomprises a strip shape.
 15. A method for inserting the surgical deviceof claim 1 into an incision in a patient, the method comprising thesteps of: inserting a surgical trocar into the incision; grasping a leadanchor and inserting it beyond a seal within the trocar, then feedingthe elongate body of the device into the trocar, followed by a tailanchor; inserting the lead anchor onto a first site; straightening outthe body of the retractor against the organ to be retracted; andinserting the tail anchor through an appropriate fenestration along theelongate body, and thereon into the site of a second anchorage.
 16. Akit comprising the surgical device of claim 1 and a vacuum retractor.17. A method of manufacturing a surgical device for retraction of a bodypart, the method comprising: forming an elongate body comprising achannel and an anchor retaining section wherein the elongate bodycomprises a plurality of fenestrations along a body length wherein eachfenestration is sized to receive at least part of an anchor, and thechannel extends along part or all of a length between an end of theplurality of fenestrations and the anchor retaining section; attachingan anchor to each end of the surgical device, one anchor accommodated inthe channel; and wherein the surgical device comprises a stopperpreventing a tail end of the device being pulled through any of theplurality of fenestrations.